BODIES OF TURTLES AND BIRDS FOUND NEAR LAKE

A DEAD bird has been dumped in a rubbish bin near Black Swan Lake sparking outrage from concerned residents.

Protesters say other photographs provided to the Bulletin show animals escaping the lake at Bundall as it is filled in.

Turtles escaping from the lake looking for safer freshwater are being crushed by passing traffic in the Gold Coast’s equine precinct, protesters say.

A council spokesman said: “Council officers are not aware of any complaints or correspondence on this particular matter at this time. Council officers will consider all written complaints and investigate accordingly”.

Black Swan Lake Group leader Tammy Hogan said she had removed the dead bird and organised for it to be examined at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.

“I turned up and this woman was so distraught. She said there was a dead bird in a bin,” Ms Hogan said. “I had to pick up the bird and put it in my car. We have to find out how it died and why.”

Currumbin Wildlife Hospital staff identified the dead bird as a dusky moorhen and are awaiting test results to confirm the cause of death.

Trucks began dumping soil into the lake last Tuesday, defying residents who have been campaigning since March 2015 to save it.

Protesters say a turtle was crushed by a vehicle passing near Black Swan Lake, Bundall, and a bird found in a bin in the area as work continues to fill the lake. Main image: GLENN HAMPSON